Watford defender Tommie Hoban wants to sign permanently with Aberdeen.

Hoban suffered his second cruciate injury in as many seasons during last month's Premiership draw with St Mirren and has been left sweating over his future.

Afterwards, Aberdeen boss McInnes declared there would “always be a place" for the 25-year-old if he wanted to join the Dons.

“I heard Derek say that and it was really kind of him," said Hoban.

“I loved my time at Aberdeen and it has been one of the best dressing rooms I have been part of.

“The boys are great, the staff are brilliant and I enjoyed living up there with the family, although it was shorter than we had hoped for.

“I really enjoyed it and I would consider going back there, if it was an option.

“I am not sure about my contract situation, whether that will be at Watford or elsewhere.

“I don't know if they will offer me anything but it doesn't really change what I know I need to do.

“I have to focus on getting myself fit.

“If they do offer me an extension then great, but if not, I just need to get fit and elsewhere.

“Someone will give me a chance to show what I can do."